Son La Prison is an important revolutionary relic witnessing the endless patriotism of Vietnamese people. In 2014, the prison was recognized as a special national monument because of its significant historical meaning.
Son La Prison was built by French colonists on Khau Ca Hill, next to Nam La Stream, Son La Province. The construction of the prison started in 1908 on an area of 500 square meters. 32 years later, it was expanded to 1,700 square meters. The prison was surrounded by solid walls made from brick and stone, with the height of 4 meters and the width of 0.5 meters. The surface of prisoner’s beds was cemented; meanwhile, its outer edge was attached to a system of leg shackles. During 15 years, from 1930 to 1945, 1,007 communist soldiers were imprisoned in Son La Prison, including many prominent members of Vietnam Communist Party such as Truong Chinh, Le Duan, Le Duc Tho, Le Thanh Nghi, Van Tien Dung, Xuan Thuy, To Hieu, etc.
Taking advantage of the extreme climate and the harsh terrain, French colonialists constructed Son La Prison and turned it into a “hell on earth” to detain Vietnamese communists and terminate their revolutionary struggle. In summer, due to the influence of Foehn winds, all cells in the prison are like furnaces. Meanwhile, winter is bitter cold because of the borderland’s harsh climate. Nonetheless, despite how severe the climate was and how brutal the regime was, Vietnamese communists overcame all difficulties and turned the prison into a revolution school, where key members of Vietnam revolution were trained.
In 1952, the French bombed the prison to remove the traces of their crimes. In 1965, under the heavy bombardment of the US in northern region of Vietnam, Son La Prison was almost destroyed. Later, it was resurrected by the Vietnamese to recreate the history. Visiting Son La Prison, travelers will have a great opportunity to first-hand witness hundreds of historical artifacts such as handcuffs, iron chains, underground cell, and To Hieu Peach Tree. Named after a brave and steadfast communist, To Hieu Peach Tree symbolizes the unyielding spirit of typical Vietnamese revolutionary soldiers. Until now, the Peach Tree is still evergreen and blooms in spring. The prison is a famous historical sight attracting a great number of both domestic and international visitors. Especially, on special occasions, Son La Prison welcomed over 2,000 visitors each day.
Other attractions in Northwest Vietnam: Moc Chau Plateau; Mu Cang Chai; Son La prison; Dien Bien Phu
